Russia has said it is open to dialogue with European countries but will not accept any form of ultimatum, as indications grow that the European Union may be exploring renewed communication with Moscow after limited contact since the start of the war in Ukraine.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said there is a need for dialogue due to what he described as a wide range of complex issues between both sides, but insisted that Europe must change its approach toward Russia.
He argued that European governments were mistaken in believing negotiations should be conducted from a position of strength based on Russia’s perceived weakness, warning that such an approach would not lead to progress.
Peskov added that Russia remained willing to engage in talks, but only if discussions were based on genuine dialogue rather than pressure or ultimatums.
Russian President Vladimir Putin has also previously said Moscow is open to negotiations with European governments, but maintained that they should take the first step in restoring contact, arguing that ties were initially broken by the European side.
The European Union has imposed multiple rounds of sanctions on Russia since its invasion of Ukraine, though there are now signs of cautious diplomatic outreach.
Reports indicate that the office of European Council President Antonio Costa has recently made limited diplomatic contact with the Kremlin to reopen communication channels.
Some European leaders have also suggested that renewed momentum around possible peace efforts could create an opportunity for dialogue with Moscow, although divisions remain within the EU over the approach.
At the same time, the war continues to escalate on the ground, with Ukraine intensifying drone strikes deep inside Russian territory, targeting infrastructure such as refineries and ports.
Russian authorities said recent drone attacks on the Moscow region caused damage and casualties, including the death of a child, while stressing that defensive measures were ongoing.
Peskov warned that such attacks would continue, while also referencing ongoing Russian military operations in Ukraine.
Despite rising tensions, both sides continue to signal, at least in principle, that diplomatic engagement remains possible under the right conditions.
